Make Sure Your Operators Are Qualified and Trained

The theme of National Forklift Safety Day this year is Operator Training, highlighting the importance of ensuring your operators are properly trained and that their training is kept up to date! According to OSHA, proper forklift training could prevent about 70% of forklift accidents. It is an employer's responsibility to ensure that all operators are fully trained and know how to operate the equipment they are using. 

Our accredited forklift training courses offer expert-led training on a variety of equipment across London and the Home Counties, helping you to keep all of your operator's training up to date, without having to worry about implementing a comprehensive training programme in-house. By undertaking training with us, your staff will increase their confidence and productivity, while ensuring a safer working environment for everyone on your site.

Ensure Your Vehicles Are Maintained and Inspected Regularly

Forklifts require regular maintenance both as a preventative measure and to fix any existing wear and tear. This may be day-to-day maintenance, to ensure your forklift is fully working as it should, or annual or bi-annual examinations. A thorough inspection (LOLER) must be carried out at least every 12 months to ensure the safety of your equipment.

Clean Up Your Operating Area

Loading areas and aisles should be clear of obstructions and uncluttered, allowing forklift drivers to operate their machinery safely. Furthermore, ensure that operation spaces are sufficiently lit and have lots of overhead room to allow operators to reach high racks without damage.

Implement a Marking System

About 10% of forklift accidents are caused by a person being run over or hit by a forklift. Ensuring your workspace is clearly marked up for operators and pedestrians should ensure safety and minimise the risk of accidents. Use floor tape to clearly define pedestrian and operator zones. In addition to this, display forklift safety signs, aisle markers, and forklift procedure labels to ensure optimum safety.

Operate Your Fleet Slowly and Securely

Slow and secure forklift operating is one the best ways to ensure forklift safety. Instruct your operators to drive slowly, always watching out for pedestrians and any hazards. Loads should always be raised and lowered slowly and no sudden stops or turns should be made in order to prevent a truck from tipping over.